Caribbean Sea – Discover Cayes, Coves and Reefs (New York to Puerto Limón)12 days with
HurtigrutenRating:

Itinerary

DAY 1 The Big Apple Never Sleeps

Location : New York City, USA

Our expedition starts in energetic, one-of-a-kind New York City. Spend some time to enjoy all that Manhattan has to offer before embarking on MS Fram. Join us on deck as we sail past the Statue of Liberty on our way out of the harbor.

DAY 2-4 Lectures and Legends

Location : At sea

Days at sea are yours to enjoy. The Expedition Team will start a series of introductory lectures about wildlife, biology, life in the ocean and the ecosystems of coral reefs, also known as the rainforests of the sea.

Enjoy the onboard facilities and spend some time on deck to truly enjoy the feeling being at sea.

DAY 5 The Magic City

Location : Miami

Magical Miami is known for its legendary beaches, Little Havana, Art Deco buildings and a sense of glamour. The city’s fabled nightlife has been one continuous party more or less since the 60’s, making Miami a playground of the stars. Rich influences of Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia and Europe all contribute to Miami’s culture, food and music. Walk along Ocean Drive and gaze at the Art Deco houses, discover graffiti art and murals in Wynwood and enjoy a slice of key lime pie.

DAY 6 Learning and Relaxing

Location : At sea

Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, housing tens of thousands of marine species. In fact, about one-third of all marine fish species live part of their lives on coral reefs. In addition to their incredible value as wildlife habitats, these natural structures protect coastlines from storms and provide billions of dollars of food and jobs for people around the world. Hear more about what these delicate ecosystems mean to life in the ocean, and other fascinating subjects from our Expedition Team as we continue sailing south.

DAY 7 Fascinating Nature, Beaches and Turquoise Water

Location : Cozumel

Visit San Miguel de Cozumel, and spend time ashore in this lively island town, enjoying the restaurants, cafes and nearby beaches, such as Palancar or Paradise Beach. Or take in the island’s natural beauty, featuring mangrove trees and cenotes, and perhaps swim with stingrays at Stingray Beach (the captive rays have barbs removed of course).

DAY 8 Cruising the Caribbean Sea

Location : At sea

The Caribbean Sea is more than paradise islands and coral reefs, it also the site of fascinating history. After Christopher Columbus stumbled across the Caribbean in 1493, Spain claimed the area, and its ships scoured the area for treasure. When the Spanish discovered the Pacific Ocean in 1513, the Caribbean became a hub for expeditions and convoys.

Pirates and warships of rival powers preyed on Spanish ships in the area. Although Spain controlled most of the Caribbean, Britain, France, the Netherlands and Denmark established colonies on the islands along the eastern fringe. The 1800’s brought U.S. ships into these waters, leading to the construction of the Panama Canal in 1914. A historic feat of engineering that saved thousands of miles of transit around Cape Horn for ships trying to reach the Pacific.

DAY 9 A Slice of Untouched Paradise

Location : Isla de Providencia

Providencia is an unspoiled and traditional tropical island. Since there is no direct connection to the Colombian mainland, it’s almost unreachable for most tourists. It’s traditions and customs remain intact and you will still hear English Creole spoken. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, lovely sand beaches, friendly locals and amazingly clear water that is superb for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

You'll find small cottages, hotels and cabañas strung along the road, and a delightful handful of restaurants. Visit a local school and tour the island, and enjoy the view of the many hidden bays. Bird lovers will have the opportunity to explore inland, hikers can venture to the highest point, kayakers can explore the coastline and divers and snorkelers can enjoy the superb undersea life.

DAY 10 Seahorse Island

Location : San Andrés Island

If you are searching for an ideal combination of relaxing on white sand beaches, snorkeling among tropical fish and lovely historic architecture and culture, San Andrés is the perfect destination. This small island, shaped like a sea horse, is located some 500 miles northwest of Colombia. While small in size, it offers tremendous, pristine beauty.

The island is officially part of Colombia, but it has a long connection with England and a multicultural and bilingual culture, with the most common spoken languages being Spanish, English and Creole. Equally diverse is the ecosystem, featuring reefs, geysers, groves, and cays. Needless to say, it’s perfect for diving, snorkeling, and outdoor exploring.

DAY 11 Lobster and Jungle

Location : Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Located off the coast of Nicaragua, these beautiful islands have more in common with most Caribbean islands than mainland Nicaragua. The Creole people on Great Corn Island live in colorful wooden houses, earning most of their income from lobster fishing. You can experience their bounty first hand with a beach barbecue. Little Corn is a tiny island with no cars and a jungle interior to explore on foot. Venture below the water to be rewarded discover a rich world of undersea life.

DAY 12 The “Pura Vida” Lifestyle

Location : Puerto Limon, Costa Rica

Puerto Limón in Costa Rica is a compelling destination for adventurous explorers. The city has some fascinating architecture and colourful open-air marketplaces, with the main market in the center of town the place to go to buy everything from carved wood items to traditional souvenirs.

Cashew nuts are big here, so be sure to try the cashew wine. While the city is rather laid-back during the day, at night Puerto Limón has an active social scene, with a number of bars and restaurants. This is where your expedition comes to an end.

Stay on to enjoy Costa Rica or fly home.

Map

All This Included

Join us for an extraordinary adventure to verdant jungles, Mayan ruins, perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters. We call on five different countries to discover tropical paradise islands, experience the pulsing energy of the vibrant cities of New York and Miami and take in the rainforests of Costa Rica.

Hurtigruten expedition in the cabin grade of your choice on a full board basis

Wind- and water-resistant jacket

Landings with small boats and activities on board and ashore

Professional English-speaking expedition team that gives lectures as well as accompanies landings and activities

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The prices shown are U.S. dollars per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices quoted for land/cruise arrangements are subject to increase without notice. Once we have received your deposit, land/cruise prices are guaranteed. Air prices quoted via phone or email are subject to increase and are guaranteed only from the time that full payment is received. Also, air prices or air promotions mentioned on this site or on the phone do not include baggage fees imposed by airlines.

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